BLUE BALLS NYCFC

@blueballspod.bsky.social

Official unofficial soccer podcast for NYCFC with your intrepid NYC Hosts Jake and Trey est. 2015 Pod, Merch, other links here sweeties: https://linktr.ee/blueballspod

Very quick yellow card shown to Nico Fernández Mercau here at the 18th minute for kicking the ball away and delaying a restart (3rd yellow of the match shown already by ref Ramy Touchan). Nico now suspended for NYCFC's next MLS match for accumulation

NYCFC injury updates from Pascal Jansen: Aiden O'Neill (ankle surgery): "looks very positive, 'less worse' than we anticipated. Raul Gustavo: 2-3 weeks, then expected back w/ squad Kevin O'Toole: "Ticked all the boxes & will be joining squad again." Arnau Farnós: Injured in training, severity TBD

Interesting response from Malachi Jones today on how playing with Nico Fernandez Mercau at the 10 vs the 9 impacts Malachi's role and how he wants to play. Noted the opportunity to now stay wide and take fullbacks one-on-one vs having to fill in centrally.

Coach Pascal Jansen says it was tough for Benie Traore to find rhythm and chemistry in his debut due to being on the road against a possession heavy team, but adds that given the circumstances “it was a good start” Traore currently on a 60’ min restriction as he ramps up

with the “fast boi” front three in against a ball dominant wide Crew, the potential for runs and releases behind is there for NYCFC, IF they can counter press effectively and with the honey badger Nico Fernandez dropping central for the first time in a year, that if might become a when

NYCFC head coach Pascal Jansen on the impact new signing Benie Traore will have: "If you see how the chemistry is being built between him and Nico Mercau is fascinating to watch" "We have good and healthy expectations of his contribution to the team"